How do Pets Affect Indoor Air Quality?
Sacrifice is nothing new for pet owners, who are constantly dedicating their time and money to keep their pets well-fed, groomed and exercised.
But did you know you could be sacrificing your health too?
How can this be?
“Pet dander” is a term used to describe tiny pieces of skin shed by animals with feathers or fur – including cats, dogs, rodents, and birds.
What is Pet Dander?
This dander is microscopic and one of the most prevalent allergens on the planet; it can even be found in homes without pets. Pet dander can unknowingly be inhaled, where it settles in a person’s respiratory tract and can cause allergic reactions and medical problems such as asthma.
Here are some facts to illustrate how many people have allergies to pet dander:
- There are more than 100 million pets in America.
- As many as 3 in 1o Americans are allergic to cats and dogs.
- One-third of people diagnosed with pet allergies are pet owners.
- About 50 percent of people with pet allergies fail to show symptoms right away; it can take years for any such signs.
Typical reactions to pet dander can range from mild to severe and include: coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, dizziness, fever and breathing problems.
How to Handle Pet Allergens
If you are allergic to your pets, the best possible solution is to find them a new home. If you are unable to part with them (as people often discover they are allergic to pets after they get them), the following solutions should be considered:
- Routinely vacuum carpets and furniture with HEPA filters.
- Regularly bathe your pets; brush them outdoors to prevent dander from spreading.
- Wash your hands after touching your pets.
- Keep your cat’s litter boxes away from air vents.
- Avoid fabric-covered furniture, cloth drapes, carpets and rugs, and other household furnishings that accumulate dander.
- Don’t allow your pets in your bedrooms.
- Use a daily, over-the-counter allergy medicine.
- Have the air ducts in your home cleaned
- Install HEPA air filters throughout your house.
Where to Go From Here?
If air quality is a concern in your Georgia home, Assured Comfort can help.
In addition to our many heating and cooling services, we offer a variety of air purification options; including duct cleaning and the installation of air filtration systems.